Glendale, CA (September 9, 2026) – The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California, in collaboration with 301 AD, transformed Vault Exotics & The Reserve Lounge in Glendale into an immersive celebration of art, impact, and connection during the inaugural Art After Dark on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Set against a striking industrial backdrop, guests explored a thoughtfully curated gallery of original paintings and sculptures while surrounded by exotic automobiles, handcrafted cocktails, premium cigars, live entertainment, and interactive experiences.
More than 300 guests attended the sold-out evening, where art enthusiasts, business leaders, philanthropists, collectors, and community members gathered to celebrate Armenian creativity while supporting two nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing culture, education, and the next generation of leaders. Featuring 25 accomplished and emerging artists, the inaugural fundraiser blended contemporary sophistication with meaningful philanthropy, raising funds to support the missions of the Armenian American Museum and 301 AD.
301 AD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating in Yerevan and Los Angeles. They host entrepreneurship programs that prioritize AI literacy, app development, and soft skills – all while pairing up the next generation with mentors that help turn their ideas into real-world ventures.
The evening commenced with welcoming remarks from host Nona Melkonian who introduced Armenian American Museum Young Leaders Council Chair Aleen Ohanian and 301 AD Co-Founders Alex Boghossian and Erica Der Boghossian to share their collective vision behind the collaboration and the power of creativity to inspire education, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
“The Armenian American Museum is about far more than the building itself. Its true impact will be what visitors carry with them when they leave. Education leads to reflection, reflection inspires action, and action can create meaningful change,” stated Armenian American Museum Young Leaders Council Chair Aleen Ohanian. “Art After Dark brought that vision to life by using creativity to spark connection, inspire new perspectives, and invest in the next generation.”
“At 301 AD, our mission is centered around education and access. We want to make sure that AI-powered tools and the knowledge of how to use them are not limited to a privileged few,” stated 301 AD Co-Founder Erica Der Boghossian. “We want the next generation to have access to premium AI tools, while developing the human skills that technology cannot replace: creativity, communication, critical thinking, leadership, and entrepreneurship. We want to teach them how to use AI intentionally: to create, innovate, solve problems, and bring their own ideas to life.”
The evening showcased an impressive collection of works from established and emerging artists representing a diverse range of styles and creative perspectives. Featured artists included Alex Sher; Anahid Boghosian; Anna Kostanian; Ara Oshagan; CanvasByCeline; Cory James Jacobsen; Haibert, Dehmq, and ValYouArt; Haikuhie Tataryan; Ilona Alexsa Jamkochian; Jack Latirofian; Janna Arutyunyan; Karen Akhikyan; Krikor Tchay; Lusine Saakyan; Michelle Tahmasian; Mooradian Gallery; Paige Ingram; Peggy Lee; Rouzanna Berberian; Ruben Perez; Ruby Vartan; Scotch Hopkins; Sossi Madzounian; Stella Mayilyan; and Tro Khayalian. Together, their contributions transformed the evening into a vibrant celebration of artistic expression.
A highlight of the evening was the auction, which featured an exciting collection of one-of-a-kind experiences, luxury collectibles, and original works of art. Among the standout offerings were a 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS, a coveted Rolex Daytona “Panda”, VIP Los Angeles Lakers Suite tickets, and an original Salvador Dalí etching of “Mercury” (1968). The diverse auction generated enthusiastic bidding throughout the evening.
Guests also enjoyed refreshments courtesy of Koy Catering by Aznive Ghazanian throughout the evening.
Art After Dark sponsors include: Ara & Nina Ohanian; Arista Collision Center; AssetLink Management; BERI Brands; Crypto.com Arena; Divine Events; Drink Gini; Four Seasons Design Flowers; Harutune Hamassian, CPA, APC; Lina Davidian Mediation Services; MALK & POGO Law Group; Marcus & Millichap; Matrix AV; Meliora Wealth Management; MKG Direct; MOVMNT; Narbeh Pezeshkian Premium Events; Sera Najarian Realty; Sonia Mikaelian, His & Her Bail Bonds; State Farm George Timuryan; Thirty O’Nine; Yerevan Champagne Wines Factory; Zartonk Media; and Zema Group.
The Armenian American Museum continues to present cultural and educational programming while its landmark campus rises in the heart of Glendale. Upon completion, the museum will serve as a world-class destination dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Armenian American experience.
Learn more at ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org or 301AD.org.